The Singapore Hockey Federation (SHF) recently concluded their development program “Singapore Cricket Club 6a side hockey tournament”, which was held on March 4th and 5th, 2023. The event saw the participation of 16 international umpires from Asia, Europe, and Oceania, including 4 from Malaysia, 4 from Australia, 2 from Hong Kong, 3 from Thailand, 2 from Belgium, and 1 from Indonesia. There were also 4 umpires from Singapore, comprising 12 men and 8 women. The umpires were managed by two FIH Umpire Managers, Ray O’Connor and Henrik Ehlers.
The SHF had previously conducted a similar program in 2019, but the pandemic had interrupted the program’s continuation for four years. The purpose of this program was to bring together young umpires mainly from Asia and Oceania under the tutelage of FIH Umpire Managers so that they could experience an international event. The feedback from the Umpire Managers was then circulated to the respective National Hockey Associations (NHAs) for their further action.
The Singapore Cricket Club 6-a side hockey tournament was a great success, and the SHF intends to continue with this program, hoping to identify young umpires for Asia. This event has helped to provide a platform for young and promising umpires to showcase their talents, learn from experienced umpires and managers, and gain valuable international exposure.
The SHF is committed to promoting hockey and providing opportunities for umpires to develop their skills, gain exposure to international hockey events, and build a strong community of umpires in Asia. With the successful completion of this tournament, the SHF hopes to continue its efforts to support and develop the hockey community in Singapore and beyond.